The Dutchman, axed six weeks ago and finally replaced on Friday by Sam Allardyce, is trying to come to terms with his dismissal, and admits that is why he has rejected two Premier League job offers since leaving the Blues.

Koeman admitted: “When the results are below all ­expectations, you know as a manager that people can make decisions about you.

“And yet, it still hit me like a bolt out the blue.

Big things were expected from Koeman's Everton — yet he ended up fired after just nine games (Image: Action Images via Reuters)

“I had started something at Everton and I really wanted to finish it in a good way. This is why my disappointment is bigger than ever before. I have to be realistic and I am not moaning about it.”

Koeman, linked with the Leicester, West Brom and West Ham vacancies, added: “I need to put those feelings of disappointment away first.